Two Tory-run councils warn PM of possible bankruptcy

Leaders of Kent and Hampshire county councils say even drastic cuts' to services will not be enough

Two of England's largest Tory-run local authorities have warned the prime minister, Rishi Sunak, that they will be forced to declare bankruptcy within the next few months because of the unprecedented financial crisis enveloping both councils.

The leaders of Kent and Hampshire county councils said even drastic cuts" to current services would not be enough to patch up the huge holes in their budgets created by soaring inflation and rising pressures in adult and children's social care.